Fashion Week Models End Events with Relaxed Looks and Ditch High Heels

With New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week coming to an end, designers will be seen attending and presenting their shows with their hair pulled back and heels left in their closets in exchange for more comfortable footwear. One designer, Anya Hindmarch, attempted to comfortably revive her guests with bright and familiar objects and logos while keeping her models in sneakers and more comfortable shoes. Models walking down the runway in what resembled gymnastics leotards gave way to a more comfortable outlook of the week; one without blisters, calluses and other issues caused by the effects of high heels.

High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Robert J. Kaplan of Twin Rivers Podiatry Easton. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

What parts my body will be affected by high heels?

Ankle Joints

Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear

Balls of the Feet

Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them

Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?

Corns

Calluses

Hammertoe

Bunions

Morton’s Neuroma

Plantar Fasciitis

How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Easton, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.